Syed Imran Shah condemns Afghan border violation

Fri, 27 Feb 2026, 4:47 PM

ISLAMABAD, Feb 27 (APP): Federal Minister for Poverty Alleviation and Social Safety Syed Imran Ahmed Shah has strongly condemned the reported violation of Pakistan’s territorial boundaries by Afghanistan, terming the action carried out under the cover of darkness as an act of open aggression and a serious threat to regional peace.

In a statement, the Federal Minister appreciated the professional capabilities and prompt response of the Pakistan Armed Forces for giving an immediate and effective reply to the enemy.

Syed Imran Ahmed Shah emphasized that Pakistan’s sovereignty, national dignity, and border security are non-negotiable, adding that no compromise would be made on the country’s territorial integrity.

He reaffirmed that the state would take all necessary measures to safeguard its geographical boundaries and protect national interests. The Minister further stated that the entire nation stands united with its brave armed forces in defending the country.

While reiterating Pakistan’s desire for peace in the region, he warned that any act of aggression would be responded to with full strength and determination.

Widow Sahara Card Scheme 2026 formally announced, registration ongoing

Asif Jalal

Fri, 27 Feb 2026, 4:47 PM

LAHORE, Feb 27 (APP): Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has formally announced the Widow Sahara Card Scheme 2026 for financial assistance to widows.

Under the scheme, eligible and registered widows across the province will be provided financial assistance ranging from Rs 100,000 to Rs 150,000.

According to the Punjab government, the aim of this scheme is to provide financial support to widows, help them meet their basic needs and provide them with opportunities to become self-sufficient.

According to the announcement, the amount of financial assistance will vary according to the type of family and the number of children. A widow supporting one child will be given Rs 125,000 (with an additional Rs 25,000), while women supporting two or more children will be given up to Rs 150,000 (with an additional Rs 50,000). The basic assistance amount has been set at Rs 100,000.

According to officials, the scheme will be launched from February 2026, while the registration process will continue until March 14. The applicant must be a permanent resident of Punjab and be a widow. In addition, a certified identity card from NADRA, the husband’s death certificate, and the children’s B form will have to be submitted.

Two methods have been introduced to submit applications. Widows can submit their applications through the online portal or by contacting the nearest registration centers.

Officials say that after biometric verification of all applications and verification of documents, the assistance amount will be provided in a transparent manner.

The Punjab government has termed this initiative as an important milestone for the welfare and social security of women. The government says that through the Widow Sahara Card scheme, thousands of needy women will be provided immediate financial relief and will be helped to live a dignified life.

SC disposes of appeal against re-polling in Qasim Suri’s constituency after withdrawal request

Asif Jalal

Fri, 27 Feb 2026, 4:42 PM

ISLAMABAD, Feb 27 (APP): The Supreme Court of Pakistan on Friday disposed of an appeal filed against re-elections in the constituency of former Deputy Speaker Qasim Suri after a request was made to withdraw the petition.

A three-member bench headed by Justice Shahid Waheed heard the case.

During the proceedings, senior counsel Naeem Bukhari appeared on behalf of Qasim Suri and informed the court that his client had resigned from his office and had not contested any election since 2018.

He further submitted that Qasim Suri is currently residing in the United States and is engaged in private pursuits there. Therefore, he argued, there was no practical purpose in pursuing the appeal any further.

The counsel requested the court to grant permission to withdraw the appeal.

After hearing the submission, the court dismissed the appeal as withdrawn and concluded the proceedings.

31 more arrested as crackdown against Tenancy Act violations intensifies

Asif Jalal

Fri, 27 Feb 2026, 4:40 PM

RAWALPINDI, Feb 27 (APP): The Rawalpindi Police have further intensified their crackdown on violations of the Tenancy Act, taking 31 more people into custody and registering eight cases.

A police spokesman said on Friday the operations were conducted in the jurisdictions of Dhamial Police, Jatli Police, Civil Lines Police, Warith Khan Police, New Town Police and Rawat Police police stations.

He said search operations were being conducted on a daily basis on the directions of City Police Officer (CPO) Syed Khalid Mahmood Hamdani to enforce the Tenancy Act. So far this year, he said, 606 cases had been registered and 675 individuals taken into custody for violations.

The spokesman said failure to register tenants was a punishable offence and urged citizens to ensure registration of tenants and employees at the relevant police station, Police Khidmat Markaz or through the Punjab Police mobile application.

He further urged citizens to report violations of the Tenancy Act to the nearest police station, assuring that the identity of informants would be kept confidential and stressing that tenant registration was mandatory to maintain law and order.

Biometric verification expanded nationwide to facilitate litigants

Asif Jalal

Fri, 27 Feb 2026, 4:32 PM

ISLAMABAD, Feb 27 (APP): In a significant step towards improving access to justice, biometric verification services have been expanded to court premises across Pakistan, enabling litigants to complete identity verification more conveniently and securely.

Under the new arrangement, court-related biometric verification can now be conducted not only at judicial complexes but also at any NADRA e-Sahulat Center nationwide.

The initiative is aimed at ensuring faster processing of cases, preventing misrepresentation, and reducing unnecessary delays in court proceedings.

According to the details, biometric services are now available at court complexes, allowing litigants to verify their identity on-site.

Additionally, verification can be completed through NADRA-enabled e-Sahulat centers across the country, making the process more accessible for citizens who may not be able to travel long distances.

The system also incorporates facial recognition technology, particularly benefiting elderly individuals and those whose fingerprints are unreadable. By strengthening identity verification mechanisms, the initiative seeks to eliminate impersonation and streamline judicial processes.

Officials described the move as a step towards citizen-centric justice, emphasizing that the expansion of biometric services will make court procedures more efficient, user-friendly, and transparent. The measure is expected to save time and costs for litigants while enhancing the overall integrity of the justice system.

With the introduction of these services, authorities hope to bring justice closer to the people by minimizing long travel requirements and avoiding unnecessary procedural delays.